OSHA Guidance Identifies Hearing Protector Fit Testing as Workplace Best Practice
- OSHA has recognized hearing protector fit testing (HPFT) as a best practice for workplace hearing conservation programs in a new safety bulletin.
- Although not legally mandated, HPFT uses subjective or objective methods to determine the actual noise reduction achieved by individual workers.
- The testing provides a personal attenuation rating to verify if hearing protectors offer sufficient protection.
- OSHA advises employers to use these tools to enhance training, ensure proper device insertion, and prevent permanent hearing loss.
Family Identifies Utility Worker Injured in Baton Rouge Bucket Truck Fire
- Utility worker Bevan Dupre was seriously injured Tuesday when his bucket truck caught fire at a Baton Rouge intersection.
- Investigators suspect a mechanical failure caused the blaze, forcing Dupre to hang from a safety harness before falling to the ground.
- He was transported to a local hospital with severe burns.
- Family members have started a GoFundMe campaign to assist with his medical expenses.
Worker Seriously Injured in Cambridge Bucket Truck Overturn
- On March 4, 2026, a bucket truck overturned on Memorial Drive in Cambridge, seriously injuring a tree service worker who was in the bucket.
- The incident, which caused the vehicle to topple into traffic, resulted in the worker being transported to a hospital in stable condition.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is investigating the cause of the equipment failure.